Executive Function Deficits

The term “executive function” is used to describe a set of cognitive processes that help students connect past experiences with present actions. Students use executive function when they perform such activities as planning, organizing, strategizing, and paying attention to and remembering details. Executive function also enables students to manage their emotions and monitor their thoughts in order to work more efficiently and effectively (Guare & Dawson, 2004).

There are six clusters of cognitive functions that are affected by executive functions:

Students with executive function deficits have difficulty with planning, organizing, and managing time and space. They also show weakness with working memory, which is an important tool in guiding one’s actions.

Problems with executive function may become evident when a student is:

It is the responsibility of all to recognize the particular needs of individual students, including the complex and additional challenges faced by some students with special education needs, and to find ways of meeting those needs.

There are a variety of strategies, tools, and resources that system and school leaders may find helpful as they work to promote positive behaviour, address inappropriate behaviour, and build and sustain a caring and safe learning environment.